Grange Fair -- come on out for the last day

Saturday may have been sunshine-challenged, but the overcast day did not stop crowds of fairgoers from having a good time at the Yorktown Grange Fair yesterday. The day kicked into high gear with the Annual Antique Tractor and Vehicle Parade at noon, and the afternoon was non-stop with activities that appealed to all ages.

The Livestock tents and the horsering events were popular, especially with kids who can get up close to the animals – even the huge black oxen or the Belgian draft horses.

The main stage was bustling with entertainment all day and into the night. The bubblegum blowing contest drew dozens of contestants for both age categories, all frantically chewing to win the big pink (for bubblegum) ribbons. Overhill Shenanigans put on a wonderful musical performance for the kids, The Justin Veatch Fund hosted an open mic showcase that featured one incredible performance after another of local teen musicians. Andrea & The Armenian Rug Riders kicked the energy level up with an energetic set that tried to defy the late arriving rain. Unfortunately, a couple of brief, heavy showers drove most fairgoers home, but those who waited in the tents and exhibit halls were rewarded with an incredible show by Strawberry Fields. Billed as the “Ultimate Beatles Tribute Band”, these guys were all that and more. They had the period hair, clothes, instruments, and of course sound, but what caught my attention were all the subtle nuances like the way they held their instruments, nodded their heads, and stood at the mics – each member of the band was fully absorbed in character, and they performed each song spot on.

Sunday’s event schedule

Today is the last full day of this year’s Fair – and a full day it is. It’s the big day for Livestock with showmanship and judging throughout the day: cows at 11:00, goats and horses at 2:00, followed by the Horse Costume class and the Livestock Animal Parade later in the afternoon.

Sunday is also a big day for the always popular audience participation contests such as pie eating (2:15), watermelon eating (3:30), rubber chicken throwing (11:00), and water balloon passing (5:30).

Also a full slate of entertainment with square dancing by The Friendly Squares – also an audience participation event, magic shows at 1:00 and 5:00, Reptile Shows at 2:30 and 3:30, and of course great music form local performers Lori & Mike Barr at 1:30, and the Bob Martinson Band at 4:00

The rides and midway close at 7:00 tonight but don’t rush home or you’ll miss the last event of the Fair: the produce auction, when most of the vegetables and flowers that were entered in the competitions and were on display during the fair are auctioned off with all proceeds going to support local charities. Wouldn’t it be cool to take home this year’s blue ribbon winning squash or hot peppers?